| ✅ Reviewed by Dr. Tom McCawley | 🕒 Reading time: three minutes |
If your teeth look longer than they used to or you feel sensitivity near the gumline, you may have gum recession. This condition occurs when gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots. It is not just a cosmetic issue, receding gums can increase your risk of tooth decay, sensitivity, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession often develops gradually, which means many people do not notice it until it becomes more advanced. Common causes include:
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Aggressive brushing or improper flossing technique
- Genetics and naturally thin gum tissue
- Orthodontic treatment that places stress on the gums
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Smoking or tobacco use
Understanding the cause of your gum recession is an important first step in choosing the right treatment.
Why Patients Hesitate About Traditional Grafting
For decades, gum grafting was the only solution. This procedure involves removing tissue from the roof of your mouth and suturing it over the recessed area. While effective, it can be painful, requires a donor site, and often results in a long recovery period. Many patients delay treatment because they want to avoid the discomfort and downtime of grafting.
A Modern Alternative: The Pinhole Surgical Technique™
At the McCawley Center for Laser Periodontics & Implants, we offer a breakthrough treatment for gum recession called the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™). This method corrects gum recession without scalpels or tissue grafts.
Instead, a small entry point about the size of a pin is made in the gum tissue. Using specialized instruments, we gently reposition the existing gum tissue to cover the exposed root. Collagen strips are then placed to help stabilize the gums and promote healing.
Benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique
Patients choose the Pinhole method because it is:
- Minimally invasive with no cutting or sutures
- Does not require a donor site
- Capable of treating multiple teeth in one visit
- Associated with faster healing and minimal discomfort
- Able to deliver immediate cosmetic improvement
Expertise You Can Trust
Dr. Mark McCawley is one of only 35 clinicians worldwide certified in advanced Chao Pinhole procedures. As pioneers in advanced periodontal care, our team combines decades of experience with the latest minimally invasive treatments to preserve your natural smile and improve long-term oral health.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are concerned about receding gums, do not wait for the problem to get worse. The Pinhole Surgical Technique offers a patient-friendly solution that avoids the pain of traditional grafting.
To book an appointment at our periodontal office in Fort Lauderdale, FL, call (954) 807-4829 or visit us at 800 East Broward Blvd #706 Fort Lauderdale, FL.
FAQs
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Because there is no cutting, healing is faster and more comfortable than with grafting.
The treatment is performed under local anesthetic. Most patients report little to no discomfort during or after the procedure.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, the results are long-lasting. The repositioned gum tissue remains stable and helps protect your teeth for years to come.
One of the advantages of the Pinhole technique is that several teeth can be treated in a single visit, saving time and reducing the need for multiple surgeries.
Many patients with receding gums are candidates, but we will evaluate your gum and bone structure during your consultation to ensure it is the best option for your needs.
Dr. Mark McCawley was personally trained by Dr. John Chao, the inventor of the Pinhole Surgical Technique. He is one of only 35 clinicians worldwide to achieve advanced certification in this method, in addition to his specialty training in periodontics and implant surgery.
